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Marilyn and Ella Backstage at the Mocambo

1950s Hollywood: Marilyn Monroe helps singer Ella Fitzgerald challenge racial prejudice. Stars Julia Ford and Alibe Parsons.

***Iconic actress Marilyn Monroe joins BBC Radio 4 Extra's 100 Club – born June 1st 1926. She died in 1962 aged just 36***

1950s Hollywood: Marilyn Monroe sets out to help Ella Fitzgerald challenge racial prejudice.

Starring Julia Ford and Alibe Parsons.

Bonnie Greer's drama is inspired by the remarkable true story of how the film star helped to launch the singer's American west coast career at Hollywood's world-famous Mocambo Night Club.

Marilyn Monroe …. Julia Ford
Ella Fitzgerald …. Alibe Parsons
Norman Granz …. Stuart Milligan
Feldman …. Rolf Saxon
Morrison/Lee Strasberg …. Kerry Shale
Karim …. Fred Fortas
Flossie …. Bonnie Greer

Singer: Ruby King

Pianist / Musical Director: Steve Brown

Producers: Pauline Harris and Vivien Rosenthal

Director: Pauline Harris

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2005.

1 hour

On radio

Saturday06:00
BBC Radio 4 Extra

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